Choosing "The Right Gun" (Pistol)

                  One of the most frequently asked questions by newer and even intermediate shooters, is “what’s the right gun for me”? Often, we hear comparative questions and statements like, “is this better than this”, or “do you think I’d do better if I had a ____”?

                  As an instructor, former MD, and competitor I have noticed from beginner to advanced shooters that one thing remains the same, and that is what is most comfortable in YOUR hands, will be the most comfortable and consistent for YOU to shoot. In turn, on a topic of growth you’ll find a more direct correlation of progress with something that’s natural and comfortable to you over something that isn’t. Don’t expect a price tag to produce progress you haven’t worked for! But also don’t forget reliability is equal as well, it must work as well as it is comfortable. Whether it is a $500 Glock or $5,000 2011. Guys and Gals have won championships with everything from Glocks, Sigs, Walthers, and Caniks to CZ75’s and 2011’s. So, remember the type of gun used doesn’t make the shooter, but the connection between gun and shooter can. One saying I always loved was “Go ahead and get that 2011, someone out there is still going to beat you with a plastic gun”. Meaning someone who’s comfortable with that plastic gun will not succumb to your new imaginary skills just because you finally own that 2011, you’re not yet comfortable with.

                  But why? Aren’t some of these guns priced higher for a reason? Does that not mean they are “better”? Well, the question I counter that thought process with is “better for whom”? There are many reasons for the higher price tags on some platforms which are far worth their value, but at the end of the day the price tag will not necessarily determine how well it works for you. Again, it’s about comfortability. Keep in mind past that, a fact which many people disregard is that there is still a budget-to-practice trade-off which is equally important and yet subjective to each shooter. A Shooter with a $500 Glock if that Glock is comfortable for them, and $4500 in Ammo to practice with WILL outperform the shooter with a $4500 2011 and $500 in ammo in difference. It also must work towards your overall goal in progress remember that!

                  Lastly, if what you have just has one or two little things you just don’t like causing you to dream of that next platform? Luckily, there is a large aftermarket presence for most platforms including everything from gas pedals, oversized safeties, grips, and more! Making your gun “yours” which is the point to most modifications, is primarily for tuning to your comfort and reliability! Just don’t make the mistake of constantly modifying and changing your setup either as it can induce reliability issues and may disable you from ever actually accommodating to said comfort. Do not confuse modifying for comfort with “blinging out” your gun. If you shoot comfortable (hand to gun connection), and the gun runs well, you shoot well. For me, the CZ75 Frames are perfect for my hands, and the most comfortable and natural to me. Meaning it’s what I in turn perform best with!